Fears of a potential serial killer have emerged in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, after three women were murdered in the state of Jalisco since May 10. Authorities are investigating the killings amid growing concern from residents and politicians.
Pattern in the Murders
Yussara Canales, a local politician representing Puerto Vallarta’s 5th district, highlighted disturbing similarities in the cases. Two or three of the victims had their blouses raised, a detail that sparked speculation about a possible serial killer.
Canales claims authorities are downplaying the connection to protect the city’s image ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
The Victims
- First Victim (May 10): Found on Victor Itiburde Avenue near El Pirulí ranch. The woman, around 30 years old and wearing a blue blouse, had her wrists slit.
- Second Victim (May 15): Discovered at a roadside stop near the Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta resort. The 35- to 40-year-old woman had been dead for hours and showed signs of a head injury.
- Third Victim (Late April): Elizabeth Galindo, 25, was reported missing on April 29 and later found dead with multiple signs of violence and bruising on her face.
In each case, at least two victims had blouses pulled up, a detail Canales says is consistent across the incidents.
Official Response
The Jalisco State Attorney General’s office has stated there is no confirmed connection between the killings. Canales, however, criticized the statement, suggesting it may be intended to reduce negative attention ahead of the World Cup.
Puerto Vallarta, a popular tourist destination, will host visitors while the region also prepares for World Cup games at Estadio Akron, about 190 miles away.
Security Context
The killings come months after over 60 people were killed in cartel violence in Jalisco. Members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel looted shops and burned buses in a revenge attack after the death of their leader, El Mencho, in a military operation.
The U.S. State Department currently advises Americans traveling to Mexico to “exercise increased caution” due to crime, terrorism, and kidnapping risks.
